text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Sep 9, 2004
|Filing date
|Mar 4, 2003
|Priority date
|Mar 4, 2003
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Ryuichi Iwamura, David Desch, Takaaki Ota
|Original Assignee
|Ryuichi Iwamura, Desch David A., Takaaki Ota
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (36), Referenced by (56), Classifications (22), Legal Events (1)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
[0001] An embodiment of the invention relates to the field of audio systems, networking and client/server technologies, and more specifically, relates to a method, apparatus, and system for improving network audio systems.
[0002] In recent years, electronic and computer systems' performance and capabilities have continued to advance rapidly in light of various technological advances and improvements in audio/video processing, networking, client server technologies, etc. In particular, in the field of audio systems, several audio server products have been made available on the market. For example, one of these audio sever products is Sony DMT-PR1 Bitplay audio/video system made by Sony Corporation.
[0003] In an audio server system, the audio data on a compact disc (CD) is compressed and stored onto an internal hard disk drive (HDD). A typical HDD can record more than 300 CDs. The user selects a CD title or a song from an index list as he or she uses a jukebox. The audio server has a CD database that can store information for a large number of CDs (e.g., more than 80,000 CDs). The server automatically detects an ID recorded on the CD and the associated data (e.g., title, author, content list, etc.) is obtained or retrieved from the database. The user does not have to input such data. The CD database can be renewed or updated by downloading a new version from the Internet or by a CDROM provided by the vendor. An audio server as described above typically has an Ethernet port. A client PC can download and decode audio data from the server through a local area network such as the Ethernet.
[0004] Such a system configuration has some disadvantages. For instance, a network cable cannot be easily run from room to room. Wireless networks (e.g., IEEE 802.11 wireless networks) can provide better access, but the range of communication is substantially limited. Furthermore, wireless networks are vulnerable to noise and interference such as noise emitted by a microwave oven. In addition, normally, a client device is a personal computer (PC), which is large and expensive. The PC is also not portable. Thus, it is difficult for the user to move the PC from one location to another location.
[0005] Accordingly, there exists a need for a better network audio system that can provide the users with at least more accessibility and more mobility.
[0006] The invention may best be understood by referring to the following description and accompanying drawings that are used to illustrate embodiments of the invention. In the drawings:
[0007]FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a network audio system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
[0008]FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary server according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0009]FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary client according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0010]FIG. 4 shows an example of a remote commander with an LCD display, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and
[0011]FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
[0012] In the following detailed description numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. It is appreciated that the operations described below can be performed by hardware and/or software being executed. Normally, the software is stored in a computer-readable medium such as a programmable electronic circuit, a semiconductor memory device (e.g., random access memory "RAM", read-only memory "ROM", flash memory, etc.), a floppy diskette, an optical disk such as a compact disk (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD), or a hard drive disk.
[0013] In one embodiment, a novel network audio system as described herein uses power line communication technology (PLC) to allow more convenient, flexible and cost-effective access to an audio server from various clients connected to the audio server via power lines. In addition, the use of power line communication technology enhances the mobility of the clients as they can be easily moved from one physical location to another physical location without disrupting the network configuration and the accessibility to the audio server. PLC may be deployed in accordance with the "HomePlug 1.0 Specification," dated Jun. 30, 2001. For more information concerning the power line communication technology, please see www.homeplug.com.
[0014] The use of PLC in network audio systems provides various advantages including the following:
[0015] (1) No new cable is required. Existing power lines are used for connection between the various clients and the server.
[0016] (2) Payload transmission speed of the current PLC is already about 2 to 5 mega bits per second (Mbps). Linear CD (uncompressed) rate is about 1.2 Mbps. Compressed audio data rate is 100 to 300 kbps. Therefore, PLC speed is sufficiently fast for audio data transmission in a network audio system.
[0017] (3) The use of PLC in network audio systems is less expensive than wireless network because no antenna and no tuner are required.
[0018] (4) Generally, every room in a house or a building has power (AC) outlets. Therefore, a user of a network audio system using PLC can go to different locations in the house or the building and still be able to get connected to the system and access the audio server.
[0019]FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary audio system configuration 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. System 100 includes a server (also called an "audio server" herein) 201 and one or more clients (e.g., client 202 and client 203). Server 201 and clients 202 and 203 are connected and configured to transfer information over a power line 200.
[0020] In one embodiment, server 201 is configured to store audio data recorded from a large number of recording units (e.g., hundreds of CDs). Server 201 also stores other types of descriptive information associated with the audio data recorded on each recording unit such as, for example, title, author, content list, etc. This descriptive information is stored in a database.
[0021] In one embodiment, clients 202 and 203 can access server 201 via power line 200 to download and decode audio data that the user wants to listen to. Clients 202 and 203 can select and receive different streams of audio data that are stored on server 201. For example, a user can select audio data (e.g., one or more songs) stored on server 201 from a particular CD using the title of the CD, titles of the songs, etc. Accordingly, one user at one location in a household is able to connect to server 201, download audio data and listen to a selected type of music (e.g., classical) while another user at a different location can connect to server 201 and enjoy a different type of music.
[0022] Client 202 and 203 may decode the audio stream received from server 201. In this system configuration, according to one embodiment of the invention, a user can listen to the same music even if he or she moves to another room. The structure and operations of server 201 and the clients (e.g., client 202 and 203) are described in more details below. As shown in FIG. 1, system 100 further includes a modem (e.g., cable, telephone or xDSL) 204 coupled to power line 200 and transmission medium 205 (e.g., telephone line, radio frequency "RF" signal, cable, etc.). In one embodiment, the various components of the system 100 (e.g., server 201, clients 202 and 203) can communicate with other external systems and networks (e.g., external systems or servers that are accessible through the Internet) via modem 204 and transmission medium 205.
[0023] A. Server
[0024]FIG. 2 shows an exemplary block diagram of server 201 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 2, server 201 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 6, a CD drive 2, a hard disk drive (HDD) 4, and a user interface 7 (e.g., an LCD, a touch screen device, or other types of graphical user interfaces, etc.) CPU 6 controls all the components through a bus 1 (referred to as "Bus"). In one embodiment, the control software program for CPU 6 is stored in memory 22. Power plug 11 is connected to PLC Interface (IF) 12 and power block 13. In one embodiment, PLC IF 12 is configured to receive only high frequency signals on power line 200 through an isolation transformer (not shown). Power block 13 can be, for example, a switching regulator. It supplies DC power to each component.
[0025] 1. Storing CD Data to HDD
[0026] In one embodiment, a user can store data from a recording unit (e.g., a CD) to HDD 4 of server 201 as follows. The user sets the CD on CD drive 2. CD Drive 2 reads the unique ID number of the CD and sends it to CPU 6 through a first interface (IF) 3 and Bus 1. In one embodiment, the CD database is located in HDD 4. Using the unique ID number, CPU 6 queries the CD database and obtains the CD title, the name(s) of the artist(s), the track list and other information. Such information obtained from the database can also be referred to as "descriptive information" associated with the audio data stored on the CD. The descriptive information is recorded in an index table in another area of HDD 4 and associated with recorded audio data.
[0027] The audio data from the CD is sent to Codec 15 through IF 3 and bus 1. As an example, the CD audio data can be 16-bit linear. The original rate can be 1.2 megabits per second (Mbps). CD drive 2 may have, for example, an N-time fast playback capability. As such, the actual data rate would be N�1.2 Mbps. For 8-time fast playback, the actual data rate would be 9.6 Mbps. Thus, it would take about 8 minutes to record a 64-minute CD. Codec 15 encodes the 9.6 Mbps of data using memory 14.
[0028] Various encoding techniques or encoding standards may be used for encoding the data. For example, ATRAC3™ by Sony Corporation of Tokyo, Japan may be used for-encoding. Encoded data is sent to HDD 4 and stored through Bus 1 and a second interface 5. In one embodiment, the encoded data may be compressed to {fraction (1/10)}, for example. Thus, the encoded data rate is 960 kilobits per second (kbps).
[0029] The user can store an analog source, for example, cassette tape music or LP record music to HDD 4 using audio input 27. The analog signal undergoes analog-to-digital conversion by A/D 16 and is then sent to Codec 15. Codec 15 encodes the signal and sends the encoded signal to HDD 4 through Bus 1 and IF 5.
[0030] 2. User Interface
[0031] A liquid crystal display (LCD) 7 or some other user-friendly device (e.g., touch screen GUI, etc.) may be used on server 201. Such an interface allows a user to file the audio data in a number of ways in order to facilitate easy finding of the audio tracks. Folders and sub-folders can be created. For instance, in filing a 1970 CD by a rock group named XYZ, the user can put this CD under a number of categories for future search and retrieval: rock, 1970, XYZ, or any category description the user would like to use.
[0032] The user interface 7 would also allow for easy entry such as an LCD touch screen or an icon-based GUI that uses drag and drop Windows™.
[0033] 3. Data Stream Transmission
[0034] In one embodiment, data stream transmission can be performed as follows. CPU 6 obtains the index table in HDD 4 through IF 5 and Bus 1 and sends it to LCD 7 through Bus 1 and a third interface 8. LCD 7 may be, for example, a 40-character by the 20-line display. The user selects a CD title or a song name from the index list displayed on LCD 7 using a remote commander 9 or a key pad 24. In particular, a fourth interface (IF) 10 receives an infrared signal from remote commander 9 and sends it to CPU 6 through Bus 1. Alternatively, a fifth interface (IF) 23 receives a command from key pad 24 and sends it to CPU 6 through Bus 1. CPU 6 obtains the CD title or the song name selected by the user and sends the commands to HDD 4 to read the associated stream and to send it to PLC IF 12.
[0035] To keep packet intervals, each data packet in the stream is time-stamped when it arrives PLC IF 12 (Not shown). PLC IF 12 sends the audio stream to the clients through power plug 11 and power line 200 (shown in FIG. 1). In this example, it is noted that the stream rate may be 120 kbps.
[0036] Alternatively, it is more usual that a client (e.g., client 202) specifies a CD title or a song through power line 200. PLC IF 12 receives the information and sends to CPU 6. CPU 6 commands HDD 4 to send the stream out as described above.
[0037] In one embodiment, HDD4 and Bus 1 have enough data bandwidth to record a CD and to simultaneously send several audio streams to PLC IF 12. While sending the stream, the user can monitor it if he or she wants. The stream from HDD 4 is sent to Codec 15 and decoded. The result undergoes digital-to-analog conversion by D/A converter 19. The output analog signal is amplified by an amplifier (Amp) 20 and sent to loudspeaker 21 or audio output 28. Also, while sending the stream, the user can listen to another music. HDD 4 sends out another stream to Codec 15 and processes in the same way. If Codec 15 can encode and decode simultaneously, the user can listen to music from loudspeaker 21 while recording another CD to HDD 4.
[0038] When two or more clients receive and decode the same audio source, background music for example, transmission delay will be an issue because a user may detect the delayed sound as an echo, if the decoding time at each client exceeds a predetermined threshold. To avoid this, the total transmission delay is defined below a threshold time period, for example, less than 20 milliseconds. The buffer sizes of server 201 and clients 202 and 203 are chosen to meet this requirement.
[0039] 4. CD Database Update
[0040] In one embodiment, the CD database in HDD 4 can cover a larger number of CDs (e.g., more than 80,000 CDs). There are two ways to update the database for new CD releases. One is to provide an update CDROM to the user. The other is an on-line update. As shown in FIG. 1, modem 204 is connected to transmission medium 205. In order to perform an on-line update, server 201 communicates with modem 204 through power line 200 and downloads the updated data from the targeted web site over transmission medium 205.
[0041] 5. Downloading Music from a computer
[0042] A user may purchases music data (e.g., CDs) using a computer (e.g., PC, laptop, personal digital assistant, or any device with data processing capability). If the computer (not shown) is connected to power line 200, server 201 can download music data from the computer.
[0043] 6. Memory Card Interface
[0044] In one embodiment, a memory card 26 (e.g., SONY�
[0045] MEMORY STICK�) can be used to exchange audio data with another device, for example, portable stereo gear (e.g., MEMORY STICK� Walkman). The audio data stored in memory card 26 is sent and stored to HDD 4 through a sixth interface (IF) 25, Bus 1 and IF 5. In reverse, the user also can download audio data in HDD 4 to memory card 26. In one embodiment, the user can control all the operations using remote commander 9 or key pad 24.
[0046] 7. Intercom
[0047] In one embodiment, server 201 can send a voice signal to a client (e.g., client 202). As such, the system as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can function as an intercom system. In this configuration, a microphone 18 receives the voice signal in an analog format. This signal undergoes analog-to-digital conversion by A/D 16 and is sent to Codec 15. Codec 15 encodes the signal, which is sent to PLC IF 12 through Bus 1. PLC IF 12 sends the signal to the client (e.g., Client 202) through power line 200. The voice signal from Client 202 is received by PLC IF 12 and sent to Codec 15 through Bus 1. The signal is decoded, undergoes digital-to-analog conversion by D/A 19, is amplified by amplifier (Amp) 20 and sent to loudspeaker 21.
[0048] B. Client
[0049]FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of an exemplary client (e.g., Client 202 in FIG. 1). Most of the components shown in FIG. 3 are also deployed in server 201 (which is shown in FIG. 2). For a cost-saving thin client, some components can be removed and some components can use less expensive parts. In one embodiment, CPU 106 is slower than CPU 6. Memory 122 is smaller than memory 22. Also, LCD 107 may be smaller than LCD 7 (ex. 20-character by 4-line). CPU 106 controls all the components. Microphone 118, Amp 117 and A/D 116 work in the same way as Microphone 18, Amp 17 and A/D 16 that are shown in FIG. 2.
[0050] In one embodiment, for easy operation, remote commander 109 may have a LCD display. With this type of remote, the user does not have to get close to the client device to see the LCD display (e.g., LCD 107) on the client.
[0051]FIG. 4 shows an example of remote commander 109 with a LCD display. As shown in FIG. 4, LCD display 401 shows a CD title and a track. Cursor buttons 402 are used to select a title and a track. For example, the up and down buttons can be used to select a title or a track. By pushing the left or the right button, the next title or the next track is shown one after another. Buttons 403 are for "Play", "Pause", and "Stop". Buttons 404 are for "Fast Review" and "Fast Forward". Buttons 405 are for volume adjustment.
[0052] In this example, CPU 106 sends the title and track data to interface (IF) 110 through Bus 100. The data is sent to remote commander 109 as an infrared (IR) signal and shown on display 401. In order to accelerate display response time, remote commander 109 may have enough memory to store in advance part or whole of the title/track information in server 201. If not, remote commander 109 obtains a title and a track data from server 201 each time the user selects. Display 401 also shows titles and tracks of on-going streams from server 201 to another client. By selecting one of the streams, the user can listen to the same music at the same time as in the other room.
[0053] 1. Data Stream Reception
[0054] In one embodiment, data stream reception can be performed as follows. CPU 106 sends an information request (e.g., a title index data request) to server 201. The request is sent to PLC IF 112 through Bus 100 and then sent to server 201 over power line 200. Server 201 returns the index data to client 202. The index data is stored memory 122 through PLC IF 112 and Bus 100 and finally displayed in LCD 107 through interface 108. The user selects a title or a song from the index data displayed on the LCD 107 using remote commander 109 or key pad 124. CPU 106 obtains the selected music (e.g., title or song name) and sends to server 201 through power line 200. In response to the received music information, server 201 routes an audio data stream over power line 200. PLC IF 112 of client 202 receives the data stream and sends each data packet in the stream to Codec 115 through Bus 100 at the timing based on its time stamp.
[0055] Codec 115 decodes the stream using memory 114. The result undergoes digital-to-analog conversion by D/A 119, amplified by Amp 120 and sent to loudspeaker 121 or audio output 128.
[0056] 2. Encryption
[0057] Usually, several neighbors share power line 200. Therefore, data encryption may be required for security and privacy. Also, data encryption may be necessary for content protection. Various schemes or standards of data encryption/decryption may be used. In one embodiment, the system as described herein is configured to support symmetric key cryptography such as cryptography in accordance with Data Encryption Standard (DES). Information about DES can be obtained from "Applied Cryptography" by Bruce Schneier (published by John Wiley & Sons, ISBN 0-471-11709-9).
[0058] Server 201 and clients 202 and 203 in the home, e.g., in the same network, share a common key. In one embodiment, all communications are encrypted with the common key, although it is contemplated that encryption may be reserved only for security-sensitive information. Since a device in a neighbor's network does not have access to the common key, it cannot decrypt the communications.
[0059] For one embodiment, server 201 generates the common key. Each client has a unique identifier (referred to as a "client ID"). In order to add a client (e.g., client 202) to the network, the user enters its unique client ID into server 201 via key pad 24, memory card 26 or another input device. Server 201 encrypts the common key with the unique client ID and sends the encrypted common key back to client 202. Client 202 decrypts the encrypted common key with its own client ID and retrieves the common key. Without this key registration, no client can access to the network.
[0060] In one embodiment, PLC IF 12 of server 201 and PLC AF 112 of client 202 include DES encryptor and decryptor (not shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). In server 201, the common key is stored in memory 22 and CPU 6 reads it. To add client 202 to the network, the client ID is entered from key pad 24 and it is also stored in memory 22. CPU 6 encrypts the common key with the client ID. The result is sent to client 202.
[0061] The common key is set to the encryptor in PLC Interface 12 of client 202. Therefore, communications are encrypted with the common key.
[0062] In client 202, the encrypted common key sent from server 201 and is stored in memory 122. The client ID is stored also in memory 122. CPU 106 decrypts the encrypted key with the client ID and obtains the original common key. The common key is set to the decryptor in PLC Interface 112 and the decyrptor decrypts encrypted communications from server 201 or from other clients such as client 203.
[0063] It is not easy for an average user to enter each client ID to server 201. Usually, a client ID is a 10-digit or longer combination of numbers and characters. There are three ways for easy client ID input.
[0064] First, client 202 features a memory card (e.g., memory card 26 of FIG. 2) that stores its ID. The user couples the memory card to memory card IF 25 of server 201. CPU 6 reads the client ID from the memory card and stores it into memory 22. This may be the most user-friendly entry procedure, but client 202 and the memory card need to be "paired" in the factory.
[0065] Second, the user temporarily connects audio output 128 of client 202 to audio input 27 of server 201 before client installation. The client ID is sent as an audio signal from client 202 to server 201. The audio signal is, for example, a sequence of pulses which a conventional pulse-dialing phone uses. CPU 106 receives a request from key pad 124 and generates the client ID signal and sends it to D/A 119 through Codec 115. The signal undergoes digital-to-analog conversion by D/A 119, is amplified by Amp 120 and sent to audio output 128. The signal is input into audio input 27, amplified by Amp 17 and undergoes analog-to-digital conversion by A/D 16. CPU 6 decodes the signal and obtains the client ID.
[0066] If CPU 6 successfully obtains the client ID, a message is sent to LCD 7 and displayed. After the client ID is entered, the user disconnects the audio cable and installs client 202 wherever he/she wants. The client ID may be sent several times to avoid errors. Also, the signal may include a cyclic redundancy code, with which server 201 detects an error.
[0067] Third, the remote commander 109 of client 202 stores the client ID. The user points it at IF 10 of server 201 and pushes the button. The client ID is sent as an IR signal. It is received by IF 10 and sent to CPU 6. For such functionality, client 202 and remote commander 109 should also be paired in the factory. If remote commander 109 supports bi-directional IR communications, the client ID does not have to be factory-set. CPU 106 of client 202 sends the client ID to remote commander 109 through IF 110. Remote commander 109 temporarily stores the client ID. The user points it at IF 10 of server 201 and pushes the button, which causes the client ID received by IF 10 to be routed to CPU 6 or memory 22.
[0068] 3. Transmission Error Recovery
[0069] In one embodiment, the system has two transmission modes; namely, normal mode and robust mode. An error correction code is added to audio data in PLC Interface 12 before transmission. The audio data is error-corrected in PLC Interface 112 if an error occurs during transmission.
[0070] In normal mode, server 201 keeps on sending a stream regardless of transmission error. When an uncorrectable error occurs, a client (such as Client 202) stops decoding and mutes the output in order to mitigate noise until the transmission recovers from the error. The normal mode is used when there is not enough bandwidth. Robust mode is used to make transmission more reliable. It requires more bandwidth than the normal mode.
[0071] When an uncorrectable error occurs, client 202 returns an error message to server 201. Server 201 sends the same data again to client 202. In one embodiment, compressed audio data rate is 100-300 kbps while current PLC data rate is around 5 Mbps. As such, even if the system is operated in robust mode, there is enough bandwidth for several streams.
[0072] 4. Prioritization
[0073] In one embodiment, when server 201 sends several streams to several clients, priority of each stream can be controlled so that server 201 can evenly output all the streams. For example, when an error often occurs in one of the streams, priorities are controlled so that the unstable stream gets higher priority. For instance, server 201 may send the first stream to client 202 and the second stream to client 203 concurrently or even simultaneously. The transmission condition from server 201 to client 202 is very good and the first stream is almost error-free. On the other hand, communication between server 201 and client 203 is poor for some reason (e.g., noise, etc.) and an error frequently occurs in the second stream.
[0074] In this case, re-sending request from client 203 can be given priority over the first stream transmission. In one embodiment, server 201 obtains transmission condition of each stream from frequency of re-sending requests. Server 201 controls the priorities so that the most erroneous stream has the highest priority.
[0075] 5. Alarm Capability
[0076] In one embodiment, clients in the system such as client 202 include an alarm capability. The user sets the music title and the time using remote commander 109 or key pad 124. When the time comes, client 202 sends commands to server 201 and asks server 201 to send the music to the client. Alternatively, client 202 may send the music title and the time to server 201 just after the user inputs. Server 201 holds the alarm information, and when the time comes, server 201 begins to send the data to client 202. In this configuration, each client can set different music title and time independently.
[0077] 6. Intercom Capability
[0078] As described herein, each server 201 and client (e.g., client 202) has a microphone. They can work as an intercom system. For example, assuming that the first user is at server 201 and calls the second user near client 202. The user specifies the destination (client 202) and pushes the call button on key pad 24. The signal goes to client 202 and makes it beep. Server 201 and client 202 are set to intercom mode. Audio decoding is temporarily muted.
[0079] The first user's voice is received by microphone 18, encoded and sent to client 202. Client 202 decodes the voice signal. The second user's voice is processed and sent to server 201 in the same way. If Codec 15 and Codec 115 simultaneously encode and decode the voice signal, both users can talk and listen at the same time (full duplex communication). If not, they can talk or listen (half duplex communication). Peer-to-peer encryption can be applied to prevent eavesdropping. In case of broadcasting, the user specifies all the other devices as destination. The talker's voice is broadcast to all the devices.
[0080]FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram of a method according to one embodiment of the present invention. At block 510, a database is maintained on a server. In one embodiment, as described above, the database is used to store information associated with audio data recorded on recording units. For example, the database can be used to store title, author, content list, and other information associated with various CDs. At block 520, audio data from multiple recording units (e.g., CDs) are stored on the server. At block 530, one or more clients are connected to the server via a power line. In this configuration, the server and the clients communicate via the power line through a power line communication interface (PLC).
[0081] At block 540, in response to a request from a client for some specific audio data, the server sends the requested audio data to the client through the power line via the PLC.
[0082] In one embodiment, the following features can be implemented to enhance the capacity and capabilities of the system as described herein. For example, a very high speed PLC (e.g., 20 Mbps or higher) can be used for robust transmission. A high capacity HDD (e.g., 100 GB or larger) may be used to increase storage capacity for the system which can hold data for thousands of CDs. In addition, a high speed recording device (e.g., 32� or higher CD drive) in the server can be used to speed up the storing of audio data to HDD. Automatic CD changer can also be used for storing audio data from CDs to HDD. Similarly, each client may have a CD drive to remote-record or remote-store audio data from the client to the server. Large high resolution LCDs can also be used for the user interfaces.
[0083] It should be understood and recognized by one skilled in the art that other variations of the invention can be implemented within the scope of the invention. For example, multiple server configuration and operation can be implemented in which two or more servers can be connected to the power line. From a client, the user can select a server. Then, the index data of the music or audio data stored in the selected server is displayed to the user. The user the selects a CD title or a song. In this configuration, audio exchange is available between the servers. Furthermore, a server in the system can function as a video server. For example, if the PLC is faster the HDD is larger, the system can handle video data. In another variation, the client may have wireless interface for a wireless headset. It can receive data and emit to the headset. In this configuration, the user can quietly enjoy the music without cable. In yet another variation, very inexpensive simple clients without input functions can be used. This type of low-cost clients only decodes the stream from the server. No microphone, no remote, no LCD and no keypad are implemented. It is mainly for background music systems. In this configuration, the server controls all other functions as described above.
[0084] As described herein, embodiments of the present invention provide a PLC-based network audio system that includes several capabilities and functions. Again, there is no new wiring required. Existing power lines can be used for data transmission between servers and clients. A user of the system can listen to any music or audio data stored in a server from any power outlet in the house or in the building. Inexpensive thin clients can be used in the system. The system according to the teachings of the present invention is highly expandable. More servers or clients can be easily added to the system. As mentioned above, a user can listen to or send a stream while recording a CD to the server. Data encryption capabilities protect contents and privacy. In addition, as discussed above, the system provides error robustness in which data is re-sent when an error occurs. Moreover, the system also provides for prioritized transmission based on error condition, as described above. The system can be connected to a computer through the power line. The system can be connected to a able or xDSL modem for external network access (e.g., Internet access). Furthermore, the system also includes alarm capability and intercom capability.
[0085] While the invention has been described in terms of several embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. It is evident that numerous alternatives, modifications, variations and uses will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the foregoing description.
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Owner name: SONY ELECTRONICS INC., NEW JERSEY
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:IWAMURA, RYUICHI;DESCH, DAVID A.;OTA, TAKAAKI;REEL/FRAME:013846/0184
Effective date: 20030304
Owner name: SONY CORPORATION, JAPAN
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:IWAMURA, RYUICHI;DESCH, DAVID A.;OTA, TAKAAKI;REEL/FRAME:013846/0184
Effective date: 20030304


text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|May 24, 1988
|Filing date
|Jun 26, 1987
|Priority date
|Mar 14, 1984
|Fee status
|Publication number
|Joseph F. Wrinn
|Original Assignee
|Teradyne, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Non-Patent Citations (4), Referenced by (52), Classifications (8), Legal Events (3)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This application is a continuation, of application Ser. No. 589,577, filed Mar. 14, 1984.
The invention relates to relay multiplexer circuitry for making channels of a tester connectable to a large number of nodes of a circuit board being tested.
A printed circuit board (PCB) can be tested by using a tester to provide test signals to nodes of the board under test and analyzing the resulting conditions at the nodes. One method of testing, in-circuit testing, involves using test pins to contact the nodes of the board under test, providing signals to those nodes that affect the conditions at a given device on the board (typically the nodes connected to leads to the particular device), analyzing the resulting signals, thereafter testing another device on the board by providing signals to another set of nodes of the board under test, and so on. There typically are a limited number of test channels, owing to their expense, connected to a large number of test pins through a relay multiplexer wired to make each test pin connectable to one of two test channels through two relays. The relays are operated to connect a test channel to only one test pin at one time, and the total number of test channels and the total number of test pins are usually divided into groups.
In one such prior art relay multiplexer, each group has two test channels made connectable to all sixteen test pins in the group through thirty-two relays; thus, only two test pins of the group can be connected at one time without a conflict. In this multiplexer, each group has a unique set of two test channels.
The possibility of conflict can also be reduced by increasing the number of relays to increase the "depth", i.e., the number of test channels connectable to each test pin. In the extreme case, making each channel connectable to each pin, one could use all channels and any pins without conflict. The number of relays, however, would be the number of channels times the number of test pins, requiring, for example, 100,000 relays to make one hundred test channels connectable to one thousand test pins.
I have discovered that a limited number of test channels can be made connectable through relay multiplexer circuitry to a large number of test pins with decreased possibility of conflict and without increasing the number of relays per pin by making each pin connectable to a unique combination of test channels within a group.
In preferred embodiments there are two channels per pin; at least some of the channels are included in more than one group; the P pins and C channels within at least part of a group are connected through relays in a fully combinatorial manner, i.e., every possible combination of C channels is used, and P=C!/D!(C-D)!, where D equals the depth; and the test pins are assigned to a particular device on a board under test such that each channel is used no more than the depth, one pin being assigned to a device not being used.
The structure and operation of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described after first briefly describing the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing relay multiplexer circuitry according to the invention connected to a PCB being tested and driver/detectors for tester channels,
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a channel driver/detector.
FIG. 3 is a schematic showing the wiring of the relays between channel nodes and pin nodes in said relay multiplexer circuitry.
FIG. 4 is a schematic of a relay of said relay multiplexer circuitry.
FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic elevation of a board under test contacted by test pins connected to specified pin nodes of said relay multiplexer circuitry.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a method of assigning channel combinations to test pins and devices under test.
Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown relay multiplexer 10 having 126 test pin nodes 12, connected to PCB under test 13 by 126 pin lines 15, and twelve test channel nodes 14, connected to twelve channel driver/detectors 16 for channels A to L via channel lines 18. Channel nodes 14 are connected to pin nodes 12 via relays in multiplexer 10 controlled by relay controller 20. Channel driver/detectors 16 and relay controller 20 are connected to test controller 22 by bus 24.
Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown a channel driver/detector 16. It includes driver 26 and detector 28 connected in parallel to switch 29 connected to channel line 18. It also includes switch 30 for connecting line 18 to analog signal line 31. Analog signal line 31, driver 26, and detector 28 are all connected to bus 24.
Referring to FIG. 3, showing the wiring of relay multiplexer 10, it is seen that there are two groups 32, 34 of pin nodes 12 and channel nodes 14. Group 32 includes test pin nodes numbered 1 to 66, and group 34 includes test pin nodes numbered 67 to 126. Within each group, each pin node 12 is connectable to a unique combination of two channel nodes 14 through two relays 36 (single form A relays). As is seen in FIG. 4, each relay 36 makes a channel node 14 connectable to a pin node 12 by a normally open switch 38 controlled by TTL signals from controller 20 (via means not shown). In group 32 or group 34 it is possible to make a connection between any pin node or any channel node of the group with any other pin node or channel node of the group, through multiple or single closed relays; in typical operation, however, at any given time, each channel node would be connected to no more than one pin node, and each pin node would be connected to no more than one channel node.
In group 32, the combinations of channel nodes 14 are assigned to pin nodes 12 in a fully combinatorial manner; i.e., every possible unique combination of two of the twelve channels A to L is shown in FIG. 3. Thus, the total number of pin nodes (sixty-six) equals C!/D!(C-D)!, where C equals the number of channels (twelve), and D equals the depth (two). In group 32 each channel is connectable to eleven test pin nodes.
The assignment of unique combinations of two channel nodes for the test pin nodes in group 34 is identical to that in group 32 except that group 34 does not have combinations corresponding to those for pin nodes numbered 21, 25, 33, 38, 48, 56. (Thus the combinations of channels are not fully combinatorial in group 34.) These six combinations have not been duplicated because only 126 (and not 132) pin nodes are being used in relay multiplexer 10. An X on the FIG. 3 schematic indicates the absence from group 34 of a combination that is used in group 32. These combinations were picked because each channel A to L is represented once, so that in group 34 there are ten pin nodes assigned to each of twelve channels A to L, instead of, e.g., nine pins assigned to one channel and eleven to another. This even distribution of pins per channel acts to reduce conflict, as does the requirement that each pin node in a group be connectable to a unique combination of channel nodes, as is discussed below.
Referring to FIG. 5, it is seen that PCB under test 13 includes a plurality of electronic devices 40. As is illustrated somewhat diagrammatically in FIG. 5 for a single device 40, nodes 42 at the leads to device 40 are contacted by spring-loaded test pins 44, connected to the indicated eleven pin nodes 12 (those numbered 1, 3, 6, 10, 15, 21, 28, 36, 45, 55, 66). As can be seen from FIG. 3, the indicated eleven pin nodes and another pin node 12, the one numbered 56, have been selected so that each channel has been used no more than twice; thus all channels can be used to test device 40 without conflict.
In operation, if PCB under test 13 has more devices 40 and nodes 42 than can be driven by the twelve channels A to L and 126 test pins connected to relay multiplexer 10, additional groups of twelve channel driver/detectors 16, relay multiplexers 10 and relay controllers 20, are provided and connected to test controller 22 over bus 24.
Test pins 44 are mounted on a support in position to contact all nodes 42 of PCB under test 13. In wiring test pins 44 to pin nodes 12, the pin nodes are assigned so that each channel is used no more than twice in the combinations of channels associated with the pin nodes connected to a single device 40. One pin node that is assigned to a device 40 is not initially wired but is reserved.
The diagram of combinations in FIG. 6 can be used to assign pin nodes. For example, in assigning pin nodes to the test pins 44 shown wired in FIG. 5, one picks channel combination group 46 to obtain combinations such that each channel is used only twice, and refers to FIG. 3 to identify the numbers of the corresponding pin nodes having these combinations. One combination of group 46 that is not used is the combination of channels A and L, the combination for the pin node numbered 56. By using only eleven pins in a channel combination group, any channel can be freed for use by any remaining pin to accommodate, without conflict, subsequent engineering change orders that might affect nodes 42 and require providing another test pin to a device 40.
In wiring further pin nodes 12 to test pins 44 for further devices 40, the test pin nodes associated with channel combination groups 48 to 54 (FIG. 6) can be used to identify pin nodes so that for each device 40, each channel is used no more than twice.
In making these test pin to pin node wiring connections, the possibility of conflict (i.e, of a channel having to be connected to more than one test pin at the same time) is smaller than with prior relay multiplexers having comparable numbers of channels and relays, because pin nodes 12 within group 32 or 34 are connectable to unique combinations of channel nodes 14. There is less chance that both channels for a pin node 12 will have to be used by other pin nodes than there would be, for example, if sixteen pin nodes 12 were all connectable to the same two channel nodes 14.
The various devices 40 on PCB under test 13 are tested by providing inputs to test pins 44 contacting those nodes 42 on board 13 that are electrically common to leads of a given device 40 on the board, while other devices 40 on the board are disabled by providing the appropriate signals, and sensing the resulting conditions at the nodes common to leads to the device 40 being tested. In testing individual devices 40, selected channels A-L are connected to selected test pins 44 by activating the appropriate relays 36 by relay controller 20, operating under relay control signals provided by controller 22 over bus 24. Test controller 22 also provides test control signals over bus 24 to operate channel drivers 26 to provide test signal inputs and detectors 28 to detect the test outputs while switch 29 is closed and switch 30 is open. When switch 30 is closed, analog signals are provided to test pins 44. The test outputs are provided to test controller 22, and compared with expected test outputs. After one device 40 has been tested, another device 40 on the board is tested by activating another set of test pins 44 and so on.
Other embodiments of the invention are within the scope of the following claims. For example, if less than sixty pins are to be used in group 34, additional channel combinations are picked so that the number of pins per channel for each channel is uniform. For example, if between seven and twelve of the sixty-six total possible combinations would not be used (i.e., if it was desired to have between fifty-four and fifty-nine pins), each channel would be represented no more than twice in the combinations removed from the fully combinatorial set shown in group 32. (In this case the pins per channel for each channel would be either ten or eleven.) If between thirteen and eighteen of the sixty-six total would not be used, each channel would be represented no more than three times in the combinations removed from the fully combinatorial set (in this case the pins per channel would be either nine or ten), and so on. This substantial uniformity of pins assigned to each channel results in efficient use of the channels and relays to avoid conflict; e.g., if one merely used pin nodes numbered 1 to 60, channel L would only be connectable to five pins, while the other channels would be connectable to eleven or ten pins, an inefficient use of channel L. While in some instances the pins per channel for each channel could vary by more than one and still be acceptable, preferably the pins per channel for each channel of a group should vary by no more than one, and most preferably the number should be the same for all channels.
The FIG. 6 diagram can be used to identify channel combinations to be deleted from the fully combinatorial set. In FIG. 6, the sixty-six unique channel combinations for twelve channels A-L and a depth of two are divided into five groups 46 to 54 of twelve channel combinations and one group 56 of six channel combinations. In group 56 each channel is represented once, and in each of groups 46 to 54 each channel is represented twice. Thus, if one were to use between sixty and sixty-five pins, the channel combinations of group 56 could be selected for deletion. (The six combinations not used in group 34 are different from but equivalent to those in group 56.) If one were to use between fifty-four and fifty-nine pins, the combinations of any one of groups 46 to 54 could be selected for deletion. If one were to use between forty-eight and fifty-three pins, the combinations of group 56 and any one of groups 46 to 54 could be selected for deletion, and so on.
Also, when using a second group to add pins for connection to channels already in a first group having a fully combinatorial set of channel combinations, one could assign channels to the new pins so that the number of pins per channel in the second group is substantially uniform. In this way the overall pins per channel values would be substantially uniform, providing efficient use of channels and promoting reduced chance of conflict.
Also, the principles described herein can be applied to depths larger than two and other numbers of channels in a group.
Subject matter related to identifying the channel combinations to be used or deleted when the number of pins in a group is less than the fully combinatorial number was the invention of Mark S. Hoffman, whose U.S. patent application entitled "Relay Multiplexing for Circuit Testers" is being filed simultaneously with the present application.
|Faran, J. J., Jr.; "Methods of Assignment . . . ", 1982, IEEE Test Conference; May 1982; pp. 641-647.
|Faran, J. J., Jr.; Methods of Assignment . . . , 1982, IEEE Test Conference; May 1982; pp. 641 647.
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|Schraeder, M. W.; Multiplexed Measuring . . . ; EDN; May 12, 1982; pp. 187, 188 and 190.
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|Sep 22, 2011
|May 2, 2012
|Multichannel scan test and control device
|U.S. Classification
|324/763.01, 714/734
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Nov 12, 1991
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|Nov 6, 1995
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|Nov 23, 1999
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12

subset: commoncrawl


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The first day we turned up the provider MyRome had one of the two guides call in sick. Due to numbers, my family of 5 was turned away. Luckily we were in Rome for a week and were able to rebook at that time on a day that suited us. The tour guide we had was excellent. She had an excellent knowledge of the architecture, archeology her area of study and also of the history of the many sites we visited. She was very patient with my younger children 11 and 13 and answered their many questions with humour, clarity and in a way that kept them engaged. Based on the calibre of the tour guide we had, I have given the half-day tour of Rome 5 stars.
Doing what: Ancient Rome Half-Day Walking Tour
Great value for money, we took advantage of the hop on hop off bus over the 3 days, and the jump the queue at the Vatican and St Peters was a must for anyone considering this type of visit to Rome.
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
Went to the Colliseum at 4:30 and then took the last pick up from there. The tour was amazing to do during the last run of the day, a whole different experience as Rome gets ready for the night life.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
This was a great bargain. We used the tickets for the 3 days we visited Rome. The local providers were
very helpful and polite.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Great half-day tour hitting many of the major sites in Rome. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and kept everyone's attention throughout. We had some rain but it didn't put a damper on our day. We'd definitely recommend this tour for anyone looking for a nice walk and some in depth details on Ancient Rome.
Doing what: Ancient Rome Half-Day Walking Tour
Fantastic, extremely crowded inside the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, friends say that Rome is now packed 365 days of the year gone are peak and low seasons, so book your tours accordingly to skip the lines. We have visited Rome a few times and this was the first time we had to miss the climb to the Basilica, much to the disappointment of our teenage children, line just ridiculous.
Doing what: Vatican Gardens and Vatican Museums Tour
Excellent hop on hop off bus tour gives a good insight into Rome. Used the bus on several days.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Great tour! A good tool to get the lay of the land and to use as transportation to the sites you want to see. Spent 3 days in Rome and used the bus multiple times.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
A perfect way to see the main sights of Rome in comfort and at any time of the day. The only improvement I'd suggest is that the buses run in opposite directions rather than clockwise only as it can make journey time (eg to Vatican City from Termini) longer than necessary
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
This 3 day pass that combines The Vatican and the top 10 areas of Rome which is a must buy for travelers interested in a V.I.P. experience. The pass allows you to save countless hours of waiting in queue for all the major attractions of the capital of Italia and everything within Vatican City! The pass also offers you access to all the Metro buses and trains. Moreover, you can enjoy one of the many yellow hop on/hop off buses, with 5 language translation, to see all of what Rome has to enjoy. In addition, the pass gives you discounts at private museums such as Davinci's. Please don't go to Rome without The Omnia pass !
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
Thoroughly enjoyed our tour. Guide was a historian who was from Rome so she knew loads of information. Very sensitive to our comfort on a scorching hot day and as per other reviews she kept us in the shade as much as possible and provided us with lots of water stops from the copious number of water fountains on tour. Would recommend this tour and Viator for booking. Skipped the lines always and groups were small enough to allow us to stay close to guide
Doing what: Ancient Rome Half-Day Walking Tour
The pass was great for our few days in the city, we made the most of the hop on hop off open bus tour getting on and off at various stop allowing us to get round true city with ease. The card also allowed us to use the metro for the three days allowing us to get into and out of the city with ease, such a simple system. Using the card for the attractions, not only got us entry but allowed us to skip the three hour queuing to get inside both the basilica and the coliseum. I would highly recommend this to anyone knowing that they are visiting Rome to see the sites, and to make the most of the transport included.
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
We were not sure about this tour as the reviews appeared mixed. First off...We found the food at The Hotel Forumn to be very good. Yes, the restaurant is a bit dated but that only added to the charm for us. We had a view of the forumn from our table and we were able to have our own table, not forced to sit with others we did not know on the tour.
What a lovely way to start a tour! The waiters were super attentive, and as it started to get dark and dinner and dessert, was over btw I am gluten free and they served a fabulous gluten free pasta we took a brief walk to The Forumn. There were about 16 people in our tour and that was not too many. There was no line, and with a full moon rising we entered the Colosseum. This was our first night in Rome and what a fabulous way to begin!!! The Colosseum at night is NOT brightly lit. It is just right to give you the wonderful feel that you are walking on sacred ground. I wish I could recall the name of the young lady leading the tour...She was simply delightful and told the compelling story and history of The Colosseum. The underground access was amazing. We chatted later in the week with tourists who had just visited the Colosseum during the day and it was hot and very crowded. We maybe saw one other tour group ahead of us but it was timed to make you feel like we were there by ourselves. There is quite a bit of walking but if one asks, there are elevators and the Viator tour guides go above and beyond to accomodate one's needs We were not rushed at all. Just be prepared to do a bit of walking and to have to look for a taxi after. There is no taxi line at the exit. Make sure to ask your guide where to pick up a cab, a bunch of us got lost.
Doing what: Viator VIP: Exclusive Rome Rooftop Dinner and Colosseum Night Tour Including Underground Chambers
Auriana is a gem: fun, quick-witted, full of knowledge, and incredibly helpful. It was hot day, but Auriana made the whole excursion extremely pleasant and entertaining. She was able to package her wealth of knowledge regarding ancient Rome into some easy-to-understand lessons. She's a great storyteller.
Doing what: Ancient Rome Half-Day Walking Tour
Really useful.
If you are staying in Rome for a minimum of 3 Days then you should take this. You can use the Roma Pass to Travel in and Around Rome. Just a Tip if you are gong to collect the card from the ORP office in front of St. Peters Square remember they have two offices, one if for the tours and one is for the Roma Omnia Pass Collection .
Few tips.
Sometimes it is better to use the public transport to reach the main places quicker.
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
I used this bus for two days to see many sites around Rome. I stayed at a hotel near Termini Station
and was able to board the bus each morning at its first stop, near the hotel. The commentary is available in eight languages which you access with the provided headset. One of the cheapest methods to see Rome, and you can stay at the sites as long as you want, then board the bus again when you are ready.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Great way to see Rome or any other city you visit. Always get as many day passes as you can. It becomes the best deal and it is one of the best modes of transportation.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Absolutely amazing, our guide was spectacular, our best day in Rome by far.
Doing what: Viator VIP: Sistine Chapel Private Viewing and Small-Group Tour of the Vatican's Secret Rooms
This is a must do to get your bearings around Rome. We took this the first day we were in Rome. Gave us a feel for were things were and what we might want to take the time to explore further. When we saw the lines for a few places we asked ourselves if we needed to go inside.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
VERY VERY USEFULL. Everyone who goes to Rome for a week should take this card. You can use the rome card for the first 3 days and the omnia card for the 4th, 5th and 6th day. So you are able to travel for 'free' trough Rome. Skip the line tickets are very good. There was a queue of 2,5 hours and it was super to skip that line at the st peters basilic.
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
We were very pleased with the hop on hop off bus in Rome. It was an extremely hot day of 38 and
for us walking around seeing the sights was just out of the question. This bus tour meant we could
see all the sights and enjoy a nice breeze on the bus. It appears the price we paid was pretty good here too.
Totally recommend this.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
This is the best way to know Rome and the most important sites!. Tour was well operated and the route definitely lets you move around the city easily. Totally recomended to anyone visiting Rome. On high demand days the tour runs until 10pm, which was an unexpected PLUS.
Doing what: Rome Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
We were in Rome on an exceptionally busy day a Saturday in the height of vacation season. We were on the 8:00 a.m. tour, which turned out to be a huge advantage, because we beat the lines! I highly recommend the early tour, for this reason. Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable about everything she showed us, and she was able to answer all of our questions. This tour supplied headsets and a microphone for the tour guide, which meant we could hear everything easily. We saw everything we wanted, and we were able to stay in St. Peter's and wander around on our own afterwards. We also climbed the steps to the top on our own, and beat the lines because we were there so early in the day. An unforgettable, wonderful experience!
Doing what: Skip the Line: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter's Basilica Half-Day Walking Tour
This is a SERIOUS walking tour -- we put on a lot of miles on a hot Roman summer day. But it was well worth it! The sights we saw are spectacular. Our guide was fabulous -- an archaeologist from Rome who was eager to tell us the inside stories about what we were seeing. An unforgettable experience! Bonus: we had headsets and a microphone for the tour guide, so we were able to hear everything she said.
Doing what: Ancient Rome Half-Day Walking Tour
The Omnia Vatican Card and Rome Card is definitely a MUST-HAVE when travelling to Rome for 3-5 days. Such a bargain and my husband and I were super glad we purchased it. As a young couple we wanted to do almost everything and go everywhere in Rome but also not spend too much, so this product was the perfect purchase for us and it was well worth it. We got to skip the ridiculously long queues and got access to lot of places with our cards as well as tour guides.... Trip was very fun and educational and Rome was amazing.
Doing what: Rome Card and Omnia Vatican Card: Valid for 3 Days
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Originally posted on Fox Sports Arizona | Last updated 8/7/12
Pittsburgh's Jeff Karstens hopes this start against the Arizona Diamondbacks goes better than his first. Based on how he's been pitching lately, his dominance at home and his previous success in the series, he would seemingly have better luck in the rematch. Karstens tries to win his fifth straight decision and help the Pirates move 17 games over .500 for the first time in 20 years Tuesday night against the Diamondbacks. Pittsburgh (62-46) opened a season-high 11-game homestand with a 4-0 win over Arizona on Monday and improved to a major league-best 34-16 at home. The Pirates collected nine singles to go with Clint Barmes' fifth-inning double, while Erik Bedard and two relievers combined on a two-hitter. The owners of the league's second wild-card spot pulled within 3 12 games of NL Central-leading Cincinnati, and are trying to move 17 games over the break-even mark for the first time since ending the 1992 campaign 96-66 - the season of their last winning record and playoff app...
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Christmas is coming and longstanding holiday botanical traditions such as hanging the mistletoe are right around the corner.
Keywords: Botany, De Jong, Greenhouse, Pat Wisse, poinsettia
The Cubs and Cardinals have never played each other before in postseason baseball. Until now. Who will you be rooting for during the series?
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Moneybroom House
No prices found through our partners. Please contact the business directly or check some of our recommended alternatives.
TripAdvisor Reviews Moneybroom House Belfast
Travel Blogs from Belfast
Glasgow to Belfast.
... the city town Hall ( photos) & parliament buildings (photos) then it was onto the titanic display which was opened for the 100 anniversary of the tragedy in 2012 ( 1911 when voyage commenced). A very informative exhibition of which more time was needed but we have a schedule to keep don't we??It was back to hotel for a relaxed evening where we dined at leisure in the hotel & a walk before bed to take in the sites. ...
Northern Detour
We decided to change our plans for a little bit and head up to Belfast. Boy, am I glad we did! We arrived in Belfast just in time for lunch. There was a little street fair right near our car park at the mall...Baylor grabbed a falafel and I got a "Street Dawg"... A huge hot dog with jalapeño ketchup, spicy mustard and crushed chips on top. Messy, but good! We walked about for a bit, ...
From green fields to urban tension - Belfast
... and no overtaking lanes. Our trip was only 147km but with a few stops to gaze at a castle or find lunch and a loo and taking care on the roads, it took a while. We note that every place has its unwritten road rules and it pays to figure them out if you want to survive! The local specialty is to change lanes at will with no indicating, especially on the motorways where everyone travels at high speed. Makes for exciting moments and ...
Crossing Borders
... we reunited with the IFSA group and took a three hour bus ride to Belfast. It was exciting because last time we were all together everyone was nervous about making friends and for the journey that we were going on, but this trip was much more stress free. It was refreshing to be on a bus and not to have to plan anything, after spending a couple of weekends in a row navigating new cities and airports. When we arrived in Belfast, Julia & ...
The Giro arrives
... road and walked towards the botanical gardens visiting churches and past Belfast Queens University (Helen don't you fancy coming here, it looks great !) Botanical gardens in Belfast does not sound right but yes they are here and great too, I even ventured inside the Ulster museum !! Well it's race time and I am positioned 600 metres from the finish the advertising caravan have just passed and1000's of people are lining ...
Other places to stay in Belfast
Jurys Inn BelfastGolden Mile, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $96
- Wonderfully helpful staff and accomidation
- Good location
- Really rather good
Europa Hotel - BelfastGolden Mile, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $127
- Give it a miss
- Not recommended
- Trip to Befast - November 26th - 28th
Days Hotel BelfastShaftesbury, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $84
- Nice Hotel -Shame about the breakfast!
- Could be in any city, in any country
- Overall very good
Queen's Elms78 Malone Road, Belfast | 2 star hotelfrom $132
Holiday Inn BelfastOrmeau, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $116
- No complaints
- Nice hotel let down by staff
- Great Place!
Hilton BelfastMarket Quarter, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $129
- Value for Money
- Relaxing weekend
- Very impressed
Radisson Blu Hotel, BelfastOrmeau, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $109
- Leaves alot to be desired
- Would recommend and return myself
- 21st Century Hotel
Ramada Encore BelfastCity Centre, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $95
Park Inn by Radisson BelfastGolden Mile, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $103
The Fitzwilliam Hotel BelfastGolden Mile, Belfast | 5 star hotelfrom $133
Holiday Inn Express Belfast City Queens QuarterQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 2 star hotelfrom $105
- Friendly clean and a great bar to
- Not Good
- Terrible customer service - Never going again
Ramada Plaza, BelfastLegoniel, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $102
- No Business Suit? Don' t Bother
- Ideal if you are looking for a quiet location superb value for money
- I was impressed enough with the Ramada
Stormont HotelLegoniel, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $122
- 5 stars!
- A Great Hotel to Stay In!
- Fantastic
Travelodge Belfast CityGolden Mile, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $87
- OK, for the price
- Great Location, Great Value for Money
- Great Location
Premier Inn Belfast City Cathedral QuarterCity Centre, Belfast | Hotelfrom $93
Wellington Park Hotel21 Malone Road, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $120
MalmaisonCity Centre, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $147
- Not the first choice for a visit to Belfast
- Nice Try!
- Style over substance - Restaurant is a shocker.
Malone Lodge Hotel & ApartmentsQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $126
Park Avenue HotelCairnburn Park, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $148
Ibis Belfast Queens QuarterQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $81
Premier Inn Belfast City Centre Alfred StLinen Quarter, Belfast | Hotelfrom $95
- A good night's stay
- Excellent Hotel
- Ausgezeichnetes Hotel
Merchant HotelCity Centre, Belfast | 5 star hotelfrom $286
- Different Class
- Service lets it down
- Beautiful hotel
Dukes at QueensQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $126
Madison's HotelQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 3 star hotelfrom $108
Balmoral HotelBlacks Road, Belfast | Hotelfrom $80
Tara LodgeQueen's Quarter, Belfast | 4 star hotelfrom $116
- Excellent Hotel - Friendly Staff
- Good location near the university
- Top Notch...


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Chef'n Partners With German Distributor Fackelmann Group
Tuesday November 5th, 2013 - 10:09AM
These are shortcuts to your favorite social networking and bookmark sites. Add this story to your Facebook page, del.icio.us, DiggIt, and many others!
Seattle-based Chef'n Corporation has announced a strategic partnership with Fackelmann Group, a Germany-based distributor of premium-quality kitchen gadgets. Fackelmann Group will be the sole distributor for Chef'n and Vibe products in Germany and Austria starting January 1, 2014.
"With Fackelmann Group as our distribution partner we will be able to effectively reach new consumer and market segments within Europe's largest consumer market" said Bob Ludeman, evp/global sales for Chef'n. "Fackelmann has primarily been focused on its own brands but have been recently engaging with external brands to leverage their growth strategy. It's great timing and a perfect fit."
Alexander Fackelmann, CEO and owner of Fackelmann Group, is pleased that both companies have similar business and social philosophies, he said, adding that an ongoing commitment to long-term and sustainable economic growth as well as a continuing focus on responsibility toward customers, employees and the environment, are the essential building blocks for a successful long-term relationship between both organizations.
Tags: Chefn • fackelmann group • overseas distribution • export import • germany • austria • kitchen tools • gadgets • vibe • • Housewares • Cookware & Bakeware • Gadgets & Kitchen Tools •
Walmart Appoints Biggs CFO, Bratspies U.S. Merchandising Chief »
Newell Rubbermaid Makes Leadership Team Changes
NPD Survey Finds Consumer Mood Brighter Heading Into Holidays
O'Gorman Appointed President Of HoMedics
Frontgate Partners With Donatella Arpaia For Holiday Tableware
NRF Predicts Modest Holiday Sales Growth
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The holiday season must be approaching, because retailers are adding items to their wish lists. I don't mean the products expected to be big sellers during the fourth quarter. I'm referring to new demands by retailers to their suppliers for fees, price allowances and other hands-tying arrangements.


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text: Wondering if you should bother spending the cash on vitamins and other pills? For most women, the four super supplements are well worth it. Pages5 of 5 View Slideshow Calcium Vitamin D Omega-3 Fatty Acids Probiotics Pages5 of 5 View Slideshow Related Links 11 Moves for Weight Loss Eat Well and Spend Less! Eat Your Way to a Fast Metabolism Advertisement Advertisement


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The Men's Wearhouse reported a dapper first quarter on the same day the company inked a 10-year deal with Macy's to sell tuxedoes.
The Men's Wearhouse has signed a 10-year agreement with Macy's, Inc. to operate men's tuxedo rental shops inside 300 Macy's stores.
After a strong start to the holiday season, harsh weather took a toll on Jos. A. Bank which reported solid profit growth and a 1.8% same store sales increase during what is likely to be one of the company's final earnings reports as a public company.
Global business advisory firm AlixPartners has been hired by Men's Wearhouse to aid in the integration of its recent acquisition of Jos. A. Bank Clothiers.
Men's Wearhouse is looking to find new homes for used men's and women's business attire, including suits, and in the process, looking to generate foot traffic to its stores.
Men's Wearhouse has launched a revamped version of its e-commerce site which features upgrades and personalized features that improve the overall online shopping experience, from browsing to buying.


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Columbus Blue Jackets
News about the Columbus Blue Jackets, including commentary and archival articles published in The New York Times.
Sabres Give Ryan O'Reilly Seven-Year Extension
O'Reilly, 24, was acquired from Colorado in a trade that involved five players during the first round of the N.H.L. draft on June 26.
July 4, 2015, Saturday
Emotions High as Islanders Drop Regular-Season Finale to Blue Jackets
In their final regular-season game at Nassau Coliseum, a promising evening for the Islanders ultimately proved frustrating when they fell to the Blue Jackets in a shootout.
April 12, 2015, Sunday
Behind Stepan's Late Goals, Rangers Take Lead in N.H.L. Points Race
Against a surging Columbus squad, the Rangers used late-game heroics from Derek Stepan to move 2 points ahead of Anaheim in the race for league superiority.
April 7, 2015, Tuesday
Sixth Shutout for Jaroslav Halak as Islanders Top Sabres
Jaroslav Halak made 21 saves for his sixth shutout of the season and the Islanders earned a 3-0 win over the Buffalo Sabres at Nassau Coliseum.
April 5, 2015, Sunday
Miller's Goal Lifts Rangers to Win and Division Title
J. T. Miller scored the winner in the third period, less than a minute after Minnesota had tied the game, and the visiting Rangers' victory also clinched the Metropolitan Division title.
April 3, 2015, Friday
Henrik Lundqvist Back on Track as Rangers Top the Jets
After sitting out 25 games with a neck injury, the Rangers goalie made 32 saves for a road win against Winnipeg.
April 1, 2015, Wednesday
Blue Jackets Top Devils
Brandon Dubinsky had a goal and an assist in his return to the lineup after a concussion, and the injury-riddled Columbus Blue Jackets ended a seven-game losing streak with a 3-2 victory over the host Devils.
March 7, 2015, Saturday
Rangers Win Despite Squandering a 3-Goal Lead
Martin St. Louis had two goals during regulation and also scored during a shootout as the Rangers salvaged a victory over Columbus at Madison Square Garden.
February 23, 2015, Monday
John Tavares Lifts Islanders Past Blue Jackets
Josh Bailey scored two goals in the first period, Tavares had two goals and two assists, and the Islanders fought off two rallies by the Columbus Blue Jackets.
February 15, 2015, Sunday
Kings Slip Past the Blue Jackets
Jeff Carter and Dwight King each had a goal and an assist to lead the Los Angeles Kings past the host Columbus Blue Jackets, 4-3.
February 10, 2015, Tuesday
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